77.              $1200

E.N. Welch miniature ripple-front beehive,ca. 1860.  In 1855 J.C. Brown went bankrupt after a fire and declining sales and was bought out by Elisha N. Welch, who continued to market Brown’s remaining stock, likely including this case.  The 15.5-inch round gothic case is veneered in rosewood with rosewood ripple trim on the front.  Both glasses are original, with much of the milk-glass pattern worn off the lower glass. The metal dial is also likely original, with the original paint and hands.  The 30-hour time-and-strike movement is signed ‘E.N. Welch, Forestville’ and is running and striking on the wire gong.  There is a dark green label inside, with some losses. AAC sold a miniature ripple-front beehive last January for $1400.  $1200–$1500.